The world's largest travel website, tripadvisor, has published a list of the ten travel spots in the world where you are most likely to be pickpocketed or have your bag snatched.
In the list, Rome is second, as in 2009, and is the only Italian destination mentioned.
Florence, which was sixth on the list last year, does not appear in 2010.
Las Ramblas, the wide, pedestrian street in Barcelona, tops the list and London joins the list this year in tenth place.
The list was compiled using statistics which indicate how many times the word “pickpocket” was used by site users in their reviews of the destinations.
Pickpocketing is most likely to occur at outdoor tourist attractions but you should not let this put you off: it is simply a matter of being vigilant, paying for things inconspicuously and taking care of your bag and or wallet. Bags should be worn across your body and money and credit cards should be kept in a body belt.
One of the most common methods used by thieves in tourist spots is the “distraction tactic” in which they offer you something, like a leaflet or paper, while their companion picks your pocket.
The cities listed are:
1. Barcelona, especially Las Ramblas and La Boqueria flea market.
2. Rome
3. Paris
4. Madrid
5. Athens
6. Prague
7. Costa Brava [Spain]
8. Lisbon
9. Tenerife
10. London
Italy Magazine advises you to take sensible precautions, be vigilant and enjoy yourself.
Have you ever been pickpocketed?
What are your tips to avoid being robbed on holiday?
